Cherry Blossoms signal spring in Washington, D.C.
Family Vacations
Plan a trip that your kids will remember for a lifetime. Take them to historic destinations where they can learn about the past first-hand, set them loose in a museum where they're encouraged go get their hands on everything, or take them to an iconic American destination that will make their "How I Spent My Summer Vacation" essay sing when they get back to school.
In the following articles, you can read about the best destinations in North America for kids and families. From Mexico to Canada and throughout the U.S., we've compiled a list of family-friendly attractions and destinations that will keep the kids entertained for an afternoon or a weekend -- and we've included links to helpful Mobil Travel Guide information including city guides, hotel recommendations, and restaurant ratings.
Family Vacations in the Mid-Atlantic
From the Statue of Liberty to the U.S. Capitol, exploring the Mid-Atlantic steeps you in history and activity.
Family Vacations in New England
Take the kids on a swashbuckling tour of the seaboard, or through the streets of a charming old town.
Enjoy the warmer climate year-round by visiting destinations indoors and out that will thrill kids.
Family Vacations in the Midwest
The Heartland entices with natural beauty, history, and activities.
Family Vacations in the Southwest
Landscapes in the Southwest bring visitors who want to explore, play, and learn.
Family Vacations in the Rockies
Arrive ready to hike or ski the mountains, but be prepared to find a host of diversions along the way.
Family Vacations along the Pacific Coast
From the trappings of Hollywood to the delights of Seattle, visits to the Pacific Coast can mean a day at the beach or an afternoon spent skiing.
Family Vacations in Canada and Mexico
Seek adventure in the snowy peaks of Canada or in the warm waters of Mexico. Explore ancient cultures, natural wonders, and modern cities.
Whatever your interest, you'll find a vacation idea on these Family Vacations pages. Continue reading to find out about the many charms of the Mid-Atlantic.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
©2007 GBCVB Cyclists exploring the shores of the East Coast.
Family Vacations: Mid-Atlantic
Family vacations in the Mid-Atlantic states can be busy, exciting trips through cities via planes, trains and automobiles. The links below will help you plan a trip to New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
Visit some of the region's most sought-after destinations such as New York City, the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C., Annapolis, Maryland, or even the Crayola Factory in Pennsylvania, or plan ahead to make sure you've got just the right hotel room for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, or the Fourth of July celebrations in Washington, D.C.
Continue reading to find links almost forty destinations kids will love, along with recommendations for family-friendly hotels and restaurants rated by Mobil Travel Guides.
Delaware
Winterthur Gardens and Enchanted Woods
Fairies occupy the grounds of Delaware's Winterthur Gardens, an imaginative place to take your children.
Delaware's village of Lewes offers a well-rounded set of seaside activities for the littlest toddlers to the choosiest teens.
Maryland
The nautical converge on Annapolis to try Maryland's waters or to visit the Naval Academy.
Wild ponies roam this sleepy island. Well worth the drive for the many opportunities to explore scenic and natural beauty, Assateague Island is a quiet destination.
The final destination of the B&O line is now a museum that celebrates all things rail.
Plan a full day to explore the variety of attractions available by land or sea at Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
America's largest estuary. Spanned by a 23-mile bridge/tunnel as well as the Chesapeake Bridge, this shallow bay is an important and beautiful natural resource.
New Jersey
From the late 1800s, this boardwalk has been welcoming visitors who arrive to play the casinos and troll the beaches.
The nation's oldest seaside resort, Cape May reflects the architectural sensibilities of the Victorian era, and activities of days gone by.
Coasters, exotic animals, and a gigantic waterpark define Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey.
New York
Upstate New York's Adirondack Park attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round with stunning views and activities.
The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History in New York features eye-popping exhibits for kids of all ages.
The Bronx Zoo fascinates children and adults with exhibits that are realistic, educational and fun.
New York's Central Park features a zoo and special playgrounds for kids, along with entertainment throughout the year.
With its stainless-steel crown, Art Deco spikes, triangular windows and gargoyles, the sheer romance of the Chrysler building's facade is worth lugging a pair of binoculars around New York.
View New York City from its waters on a Circle Line Tour, a relaxing, informative way to sightsee.
Americana down to the baseball and apple pie, Cooperstown, New York, is a must-see for fans of the game - and history.
The Empire State Building's view of New York and beyond can stretch for 80 miles on a clear day.
Guides walk visitors through this solemn site, remembering the events of September 11th, 2001 and looking to the future.
Host to the Olympics twice, Lake Placid, New York lets you experience sports that Olympiads pursue.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Usher the holiday season in at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Visit New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art with a kid's eye and you'll be delighted with what you see.
The most action-packed city blocks in New York wow out-of-towners with the constant buzz of commerce.
Its spires and intricate architectural details make St. Patrick's Cathedral one of New York City's most admired landmarks.
When some of the world's greatest architects collaborate to house the works of many of the world's greatest artists, an iconoclast is born.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Symbolizing freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island continue to inspire.
New York's Times Square absolutely buzzes with excitement with shops to please little tikes and teens alike.
Massive in size and scope, the United Nations complex is host to a complexity of nations and politics
Pennsylvania
Binney & Smith Crayola Factory
Take a colorful tour of the Binney & Smith Crayola Factory in Easton, Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh's massive Carnegie Science Center entices visitors of all ages with fascinating exhibits.
Frank Lloyd Wright's most-admired work is Fallingwater, the home that seemingly floats over a stream in Pennsylvania.
The gigantic human heart at the Franklin Institute of Science is an oversized science lesson.
Gettysburg National Military Park
Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania documents the bloodiest battle of the Civil War.
Punxsutawney Phil makes an appearance in Punxsutawney to mark the end - or the near-end of - winter.
Sweet rides at Hersheypark amusement park round out this dream trip to the chocolate factory.
Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are two of Philadelphia's most-visited destinations.
Classic wooden roller coasters, a vintage Kiddieland, and lush grounds make Pennsylvania's Kennywood a beloved destination.
A New Year's Day tradition in Philadelphia, the Mummers Parade (and museum) delivers a long tradition of humor.
Show your children a different world in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, a peaceful tour through Amish communities.
Planned by William Penn in 1682, and its now an artsy neighborhood - as well as the proud home of Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in America.
To get a good view of Pittsburgh's three rivers, take the Duquesne Incline.
Let your kids roam the Pennsylvania's Please Touch Museum, where they get hands-on time with everything.
Langhorne, Pennsylvania's Sesame Place theme park features sets, characters and themes from Sesame Street.
Washington, D.C.
Solders from every war the United States has fought are buried at Arlington. It is also the site of President John F. Kennedy's grave.
Plan ahead to make your Fourth of July Festivities in Washington, D.C. memorable.
And entire vacation can be planned around the museums, events, and attractions on our National Mall in Washington, D.C.
The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. explores the thrill of flight.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
All things monetary are scrutinized at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing in Washington, D.C.
Cool and sleek, Washington, D.C.'s International Spy Museum is an undercover look at sleuthing.
Gazing out at the Reflecting Pool and to the Washington Monument and the National Mall, Abraham Lincoln's massive figure is an imposing reminder of what he accomplished for our nation.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival
For a few fleeing weeks in March and April the National Cherry Blossom Festival takes over Washington, D.C.
National Museum of the American Indian
In Washington, D.C., the National Museum of the American Indian is a new addition.
Early birds arrive at 6 a.m. at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., to see the animals as they start their day.
Supreme Court of the United States
The highest court in the nation is fronted by eight rows of pillars that hold up the motto, "Equal Justice Under Law."
U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum
Devoted to documenting, studying and interpreting the Holocaust, the museum is also a memorial to the Holocaust's six million victims.
An icon of 19th-century neoclassical architecture, the U.S. Capitol houses the country's legislative branches.
Pennsylvania Avenue's best-known residence once maintained an open-door policy. These days, it's a bit more difficult to get in, but don't' pass an opportunity to see what you can when you're in town.
From the Mid-Atlantic, it's easy to sweet through New England as well. Continue reading to find more family vacation destinations in New England states including Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
A warm summer night draws crowds of fans to Boston's Fenway Park.
Family Vacations: New England
Pinpoint the places in New England -- Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut -- that offer the best activities for your children. Teach them to sail at Bar Harbor, let them run on the beach at Martha's Vineyard, or take them on a tour of the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream factory in Vermont.
Each season brings a new set of delights to New England. Visitors can see the season's earliest blooms at the Green Animals Topiary Garden in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, watch a game on a hot summer day at Boston's Fenway Park, or celebrate autumn at the Keene Pumpkin Festival. Thanksgiving is a particularly poignant time to visit Plimoth Plantation to experience some of the hardships endured by the settlers during their first winter.
Continue reading to find links to 25 amazing places in New England, and use our helpful links to find Mobil-rated hotels and restaurants that welcome families with kids.
Connecticut
Barker Character, Comic & Cartoon Museum
See all your friends at the Barker Character, Comic & Cartoon Museum in Cheshire, Connecticut.
Seafarers at Mystic Seaport, Connecticut walk the decks of tall ships and hear tales from costumed pirate docents.
Stonington, the oldest borough in Connecticut, has lovingly restored its lighthouse more than once. It now stands as a beacon to Connecticut's maritime history.
Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History
See fantastic dinosaur skeletons and more at the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
Maine
In Bar Harbor, Maine, family-friendly resorts are packed with kayaks and bikes for rent, and old-fashioned charm to explore.
The Boating Capital of New England is a sailor's paradise along Maine's mid-coast.
On Maine's coast, the fishing village of Ogunquit is a place where kids can sail, swim, or hike to their heart's content.
Recreational opportunities available at Penobscot Bay range from water sports to landlubbing along the rich coastline.
Massachusetts
The Boston Children's Museum allows kids explore, climb, and even dig their way through a visit.
Six days packed with more than 200 patriotic events surround July 4th in Boston - by land and by sea, this festival celebrates Americana.
On the third Monday in April, Patriot's Day, 500,000 spectators take to the streets of Boston to cheer on the Boston Marathon's runners.
Storybook characters live in Boston's Public Gardens, a magical journey through literature.
Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
View the charming collection at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Massachusetts.
Take your kids to Fenway Park for a game and a behind-the-scenes tour they'll love.
Boston's Freedom Trail allows you to walk a 2.5-mile trail past 16 historic sites.
Historic Harvard Square is also the more historic village of Newtowne, the first planned settlement in Anglo North America. Now it buzzes with activity.
Martha's Vineyard is a bucolic family destination offering the best of a Massachusetts seaside escape.
It's New England in the 1830s at Old Sturbridge Village, an outdoor living history museum an hour from Boston.
At the Plimoth Plantation in Massachusetts, find out how the earliest Americans and Native Americans lived.
The ten-ton granite boulder that marks the Pilgrims arrival in the New World marks the beginning of a journey that includes whale watching, kayaking, and beach bumming.
Witch trials made the town of Salem, Massachusetts famous, and the streets here are filled with mystic history.
Henry David Thoreau's place of rest presents a serene escape and an excellent opportunity for contemplation.
New Hampshire
Celebrate Halloween at New Hampshire's Keene Pumpkin Festival, a weeklong event.
Rent a cottage at Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, where bucolic towns thrive on summertime lake activities.
Sea creatures teem along the shores of Odiorne Point State Park in New Hampshire, a hands-on park for the whole family.
White Mountain National Forest
New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest boasts natural beauty and budget-friendly campsites.
Rhode Island
Providence's Benefit Street features historic homes and in June, a festival to celebrate the historic neighborhood.
Take to 17 miles of beaches at Block Island, Rhode Island's windswept seashore.
See Newport, Rhode Island's tony vacation destination, but stay for the family fun.
Vermont
Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory Tour
Kids love touring Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory - and its graveyard of "retired" flavors.
Vermont's Green Mountains create a haven for skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer, but there are also caves to explore and amazing fall foliage.
Solders, warriors, smugglers, spies, patriots and traitors have visited Lake Champlain throughout the years.
Sand Bar State Park's 2,000-foot stretch of sand is Vermont's most coveted swimming hole.
Vermont's Shelburne Museum's large campus features true American folk art.
Vermont Institute of Natural Science
Just outside of Woodstock, Vermont, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science makes a home for raptors, and other less volatile birds in the shade of trees and gardens.
New England's charms are rivaled by the hospitality down South -- particularly in the winter months when family vacation seekers look for a few days in the sun. Continue to the next page to read about some of the best locations in the South for a great family vacation.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Explore natural and modern history in the south.
Family Vacations: The South
An inviting climate makes the South an attractive family vacation destination throughout the year. Kids love historic destinations, living history museums, and modern amusement parks that thrive in the South -- Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana -- and everyone notices the spirit of hospitality throughout the region.
Below, you'll find links to family vacation spots in the South designed with kids in mind, along with helpful links to Mobil-rated, family-friendly hotels and restaurants near each destination.
Alabama
Gulf Shores, Alabama, features 32 miles of sandy shores for exploration and play.
Huntsville, Alabama's U.S. Space and Rocket Center is home to the Space Camp program and a museum.
The 56-foot statue in cast-iron celebrates Birmingham's past as a mining town.
Arkansas
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Spend an entire week -- or more -- exploring more than 160 miles of sandy beaches, barrier islands and charming towns along the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Little kids can crawl in the crannies at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Arkansas.
Renowned or glistening streams and pristine lakes, Ouachita National Forest is also a favorite stomping grounds for geology enthusiasts and rock collectors.
Pioneer life is celebrated at the Ozark Folk Center State Park in Arkansas.
Florida
Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon Water Parks
The whimsy of snow-bound waterparks in Florida marks Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon Water Parks.
At Tampa Bay's Busch Gardens, see exotic, endangered animals and enjoy a theme park, too.
A barrier island off the coast of Florida, Cape Canaveral Is home to the Kennedy Space Center, but it is also Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine
Little ones collect shells while older kids learn deep-sea fishing beyond the shores of Destin, Florida.
Special programs for kids at Cape Canaveral's Kennedy Space Center make this a truly memorable place.
At the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key West maintains pleasant weather - most of the time - and a relaxed beach culture.
Find a slice of Cuba in Florida where streets are lined with authentic Cuban eateries and cigars hand-rolled by Cubans.
South Beach's fashionable streets are adorned with Art Deco buildings and beautiful people.
An estate befitting a circus baron.
Shores lined with seashells and frequent dolphin sightings mark Sanibel Island as a lively seaside destination.
Early Spanish history along the soft-sand shores of St. Augustine, Florida, makes this a dynamic spot to visit.
Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
Movies and activities converge at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Dating back to the 1920's, this enormous pool looks like a Venetian Grotto and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Walt Disney World, the jewel in Orlando's crown, gives families everything to do.
Georgia
Twelve miles of hiking trails wind through wooded paths and breathtaking views of the falls.
At the center of downtown Savannah's historic district, Chippewa Square celebrates General James Edward Oglethorpe who founded the colony of Georgia.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Prehistoric creatures dominate the Fernbank Museum of Natural History in Georgia.
A six million gallon tank provides a home for the featured residents of the Georgia Aquarium.
Sea, Jekyll, St. Simons, Little St. Simons, and Cumberland Islands make up the Golden Isles of Georgia.
Georgia's smallest barrier island, Jekyll Island was a retreat for wealthy industrialists in the late-1800s.
Martin Luther King, Jr., National Historic Site
Commemorating the life and work of Martin Luther King, Jr., this center includes interpretations of King's life as well as his grave.
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Best seen by canoe, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge brims with wildlife.
One of Savannah, Georgia's many historic homes belonged to the founder of the Girl Scouts. Read more about historic Savannah, Georgia.
The world's largest exposed piece of granite features the Confederate Memorial Carving, which depicts three Civil War figures, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee, and General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson.
Sand dunes on this barrier island serve as a backdrop for beach activities and cottage life.
The museum that celebrates one of the world's most-recognized brands is a big draw in its hometown of Atlanta.
Kentucky
The Kentucky Derby Festival's ten days of events in Louisville leads up to the Race for the Roses.
Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory
A giant baseball bat marks the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory in downtown Louisville.
The National Corvette Museum and Factory Tour
The National Corvette Museum and Factory Tour is the centerpiece of Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Louisiana
Two state capitols grace Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Explore them both.
If you can't make it down for the event, visit Mardi Gras World museum for a look into New Orleans' most notorious event.
Telling the story of World War II, the National D-Day Museum in Louisiana gives kids an opportunity to learn.
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
Kids celebrate music at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in April and May.
Thirty antebellum mansions overlook the Mississippi River on Great River Road, and some of them are open for business as bed-and-breakfast inns.
Spooky Cemeteries and Haunted House Tours
Older kids are thrilled by Spooky Cemeteries and Haunted House Tours of New Orleans.
Mississippi
Celebrating the Mississippi Delta Blues sound, this festival is the second oldest in the country.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Mississippi's Gulf Islands National Seashore features idyllic beaches, island hopping, and salt marshes.
Now designated as a National Scenic Trail, the Natchez Trace has long been a route of trade and commerce.
North Carolina
Its storied past - disappearing settlers and visits by Blackbeard - makes the Outer Banks an interesting destination.
North Carolina's Wrightsville Beach maintains a small island feeling while delivering a big vacation experience.
South Carolina
The largest home in the United States rests on 8,000 acres of lush gardens, active vineyards, and a luxury inn.
One of the most lovingly preserved cities in the U.S., Charleston, South Carolina, presents a picture postcard journey through the Old South.
Lull around South Carolina charm and history at Edisto Island.
This semitropical paradise welcomes visitors to its beaches, salt marshes, lagoons, and lush forests.
South Carolina's Kiawah Island merges pristine beachfronts, naturescapes, and resort fun. Find out more about Kiawah Island.
Tennessee
Beale Street is the place to be for music and nightlife in downtown Memphis.
At times quirky and always unusual, Graceland's many oddities are the curiosity of Tennessee.
The longest-running live radio program in the U.S., the Grand Ole Opry is now a resort that includes a convention center, golf, and shopping.
The struggle for justice is explored at the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee.
National Storytelling Festival
In early October, Jonesborough, Tennessee welcomes storytellers of every age to weave their tales.
Families simply cannot be bored in Pigeon Forge and Dollywood, Dolly Parton's homage to her home in Tennessee.
The world's largest freshwater aquarium, the Tennessee Aquarium features river and lake creatures.
Virginia
Assateague Island National Seashore
Wild ponies and other unusual animals roam the shores of Assateague Island National Seashore.
Eye-catching and fun, Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, features amazing architecture and exciting rides.
Colonial Williamsburg, the world's largest living history museum, tells the story of early settlements in Virginia.
Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement
English settlement is explored at Historic Jamestowne and Jamestown Settlement.
Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this scenic mill is now a living history center.
The home of Thomas Jefferson is a Roman neo-classical masterpiece.
George Washington's plantation along the Potomac River is carefully preserved in Virginia's countryside.
Chantilly, Virginia, houses the Smithsonian's overflow collection of air and space vehicles.
Virginia Beach's 2.5-mile boardwalk is the epicenter of activity for this busy and bucolic beach town.
West Virginia
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Steeped in history, West Virginia's Harpers Ferry National Historical Park tells many stories. Read more about Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
One of the largest protected woodlands in the nation, the Monongahela National Forest is home to a wide range of plant and animal life.
River Rafting on the Upper New River
Experience the challenge and adventure of river rafting on the Upper New River in West Virginia.
Oglebay Park's Winter Festival of Lights brings magic to West Virginia's winter nights.
From Ogelbay Park, it's just a short trip to Ohio, where the Midwest begins. Plan a family vacation in the Midwest any season of the year, and you'll be thrilled by the charm and straight-forward warmness of the people you meet.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of Michigan's best-kept secrets.
Family Vacations: Midwest
Family vacations to the Midwest -- Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and both Dakota's -- entice with destinations like Cedar Point in Ohio, home to the world's tallest, fastest rollercoasters, and Conner Prairie in Indiana, one of the nation's most calm natural landscapes.
Seek all-out-exciting trip or a quiet weekend by visiting the links below, and find Mobil-rated family-friendly hotels and restaurants that will help you plan your trip in advance.
Illinois
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Springfield, Illinois, is home to President Lincoln's humble log cabin and his impressive library.
Kids head directly for the armor or miniature collections at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Chicago's Blues Festival celebrates the genre with a festival in June that spotlights the region's legendary performers and songs.
Chicago International Children's Film Festival
Films for -- and sometimes by -- children are celebrated in a lively Chicago festival in October.
Those few who aren't interested in shopping on this legendary street can still be delighted by its architecture, entertainment, eateries and diversions.
A reclaimed Brownfield becomes a coveted city space in downtown Chicago's Millennium Park.
Museum of Science and Industry
Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry lets kids explore lots of machinery.
The giant Ferris wheel attracts kids to Navy Pier, activities and restaurants keep families there all day and night.
Chicago's famed Shedd Aquarium was the nation's first inland water museum, and remains a beloved landmark.
Chicago's vintage baseball field features an old-fashioned feel, and a few lovable quirks.
Chicago's Lincoln Park lights up during the holidays, offering events, ice sculptures and guided tours to visitors.
Indiana
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a bright world of exploration.
South Bend, Indiana, celebrates the spirit, legends and heroes of college football.
Work the fields as they did in the 1800s at Conner Prairie, Indiana's living history museum.
In Santa Claus, Indiana, preschoolers have a special place to play at Holiday World.
Indianapolis 500 and the Finish Line 500 Festival
The days leading up to Memorial Day Weekend mark the Indianapolis 500 and the Finish Line 500 Festival.
Iowa
Visit the Amana Colonies, one of the most successful communal colonies in American history.
The bridges that crisscross the waters of Madison County draw visitors who seek romance.
Traditional fair competitions as well as a rubber chicken-throwing contest highlight the Iowa State Fair.
Kansas
Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City shows kids what Front Street was like in 1876, a rough-and-tumble tour of the Old West.
A visit to the Oz Museum is like stepping into the story, with witches, flying monkeys, and munchkin memorabilia.
Michigan
It's Christmas all year long in Frankenmuth, Michigan, and families arrive for a dose of holiday cheer and fried chicken dinners.
Michigan's Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a charming masterpiece of old-fashioned luxury.
Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
Dearborn, Michigan, celebrates innovation at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
Connecting Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas and is nearly five miles long.
Northern Michigan's car-free island welcomes visitors for a historic retreat.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Lake Superior's shoreline features sculpted sandstone cliffs, best seen by boat tour.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Lake Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a favorite for families.
Holland, Michigan, pays tribute to its Dutch ancestry with a tulip festival held in the shadows of its picturesque windmills.
Minnesota
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers 1,200 miles of canoe routes.
The Children's Theater Company in Minneapolis presents classics as well as forward-thinking works.
A gigantic mall with roller coasters, the Mall of America features a four-story Lego play area.
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is the largest urban sculpture garden in the country.
Button up their coats and get the kids out at the St. Paul Winter Carnival, a celebration in the city streets.
Missouri
The Live Music Show Capital of the World, Branson, Missouri thrills with musicals, amusement parks -- and go-cart tracks.
From the Gateway Arch's observation area, see the gateway to the Old West.
Kansas City's Hallmark Cards invites children into Kaleidoscope to create in a world developed just for them.
In St. Louis, kids are encouraged to play in this unusual Victorian house-made-museum called the Magic House.
Kids get up close to animals at the St. Louis Zoo, an imaginative place thoughtfully designed with kids in mind.
Nebraska
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park
Memorabilia from his Wild West shows make a visit to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historic Park a treat.
A place where cars mystically Chimney Rock
Its rising spire can be seen from the Oregon Trail and it also serves as the place where the plains give way to the Rockies.
Standing out as a landmark in the landscape, Chimney Rock has long oriented travelers.
A glass dome and a glass tunnel allow visitors at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo to walk into animal habitats.
North Dakota
Fort Abraham Lincoln and Fort Mandan
Visit this authentic fort on the American frontier that was once the most important stop on the Northern Plains.
Stand in two countries at once in a garden that celebrates peace between the U.S. and Canada.
Bismark's tallest building is an Art Deco gem that stands out in the town and on the prairie.
Ohio
Superlatives abound at Cedar Point Amusement Park where the tallest, fastest, and highest coasters lure visitors.
An old train station comes to life as a museum center, where kids can explore science and fun.
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
In Ohio, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center tells the story of the road to freedom.
Rides themed on Paramount movies attract visitors to Paramount's Kings Island on Southwestern Ohio.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival
In August, fans descend on Canton, Ohio, to revel at the Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
Rock stars' report cards amuse kids who visit Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
Ancient people formed this snake into the land, and visitors arrive to wonder at its origins.
South Dakota
Begun in 1948, the Crazy Horse Memorial is a nine-story sculpture being carved into the Black Hills.
Kids can participate in a dig where more than fifty mammoth skeletons have been found.
More than 5,700 feet tall, Mount Rushmore is stunning to witness by day, and at its nightly lighting ceremony.
The little town of Sturgis throws a big party each year, welcoming revelers to its streets to shop, play, and celebrate.
Visitors to Wind Cave National Park come to see - and hear - one of the world's longest and most complex cave systems.
Wisconsin
Apostle Island National Lakeshore
In northern Wisconsin, this group of 21 islands is a summertime ritual for visitors who arrive to explore nature and play.
Charming cottages populate this Lake Michigan peninsula near Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion
Ornate, roomy, and a bit fascinating, the Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee reflects a Flemish style and gives insight to the man behind the brand.
Tour, and of course taste, during the Jelly Belly Warehouse Tour in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin.
To fans, it's not just a stadium, it's an experience. Visit the hallowed stomping grounds of the Packers and find out more about Wisconsin's beloved team.
Frank Lloyd Wright's sublime creation is a National Historic Landmark offering tours and opportunities to learn more about Wright's philosophies.
The Wisconsin Dells lures families with more than a dozen waterparks and many attractions.
Northern Wisconsin's summers are short, so families take advantage of every free moment at destinations like the Wisconsin Dells. During the winter, Midwesterners look for destinations in the Southwest, where warm skies and dry air make for a relaxing family vacation. Continue to the next page to find out more about family vacations in the Southwest.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Visitors to Atlanta take in the sunny side of this cosmopolitan city.
Family Vacations: Southwest
Children are thrilled thrilled by tales of the Old West and inspired by visits to some the region's most advanced scientific locales. Plan a family vacation in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, or Nevada, and you'll have an opportunity to show your kids the Grand Canyon, old cowboy towns, or Space Center Houston. Arrive at the right time of year, and catch the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, participate in the Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival, or see the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival.
Explore the links, below, to find destinations your kids will love. We've included links to Mobil-rated family-friendly hotels and restaurants near each destination, so all you need to do is pack. Continue reading to find out more about places to take your kids in the Southwest.
Arizona
Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Visit spider rock and explore a wild and varied landscape.
Take a rafting trip along the Colorado River for an up-close view from the depths of the Grand Canyon.
Offering hikers a uniquely lush experience in an otherwise dry area, Sabino Canyon is a fascinating landscape to explore.
Explore Native American ruins and haunting rock formations on a Jeep tour through Sedona.
Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural school draws students who explore his style and tourists who gaze on his work.
The Navajo Nation's landmark arch brings tourist who see beauty - and mystique - in it.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Lava shaped the unearthly landscape at Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve.
Hells Canyon of the Snake River
Mimicking the profile of a woodsman's saw, this mountain in central Idaho cuts an unexpected line in the landscape.
River Rafting on the Salmon River
After mid-July, River Rafting on the Salmon River gets mild enough for little kids.
Winter sports like skiing are popular at the scenic Sawtooth National Forest.
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center
Kids enjoy summer day camps at the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
See the prairie field known as Custer's Last Stand, and learn about its history.
Find out about the ancient history of the Rockies at this amazing look into the region's prehistoric finds.
Virginia City is a well-preserved gold rush town welcoming visitors to explore its history.
From over-the-top themed hotels, attractions, and shopping, families can have a lively outing in Las Vegas.
Not far from the trappings of Las Vegas, Pyramid Lake delivers a dash of solemnity in the Nevada wilderness.
Whitewater Park and Kayak Slalom Racing Course
Test your skills at Reno's Whitewater Park and Kayak Slalom Racing Course.
New Mexico
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Hot air balloons take to the sky at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Take a self-guided or ranger-led tour through the spectacular underground Carlsbad Caverns.
With settlement of the land came the establishment of new churches and mission. These surviving structures tell the story of faith in the region.
Drawing tourist who are looking for an out-of-this-world experience, Roswell is a destination for conspiracy theorists and the curious.
Museums with an eye for kids, as well as local culinary delights, top the list of what kids like about Santa Fe.
The oldest continuously occupied structure on the continent, dating back to A.D. 100, Taos Pueblo is an interesting look into history.
Oklahoma
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Kids can be cowboys at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival
More than 100 Native American tribes attend the Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival each June.
Oklahoma City National Memorial
Remembering those who suffered and died, this memorial is a sobering look at the tragedy and a message of hope for the future.
Celebrating one of America's greatest folk singers, this festival attracts acts and fans who love the genre.
Texas
Galveston's Sandcastle Competition, hosted by the American Institute of Architects is amazing.
Explore a city alive with art, music, nightlife, politics, and charm.
Bat Watching at the Congress Avenue Bridge
The largest urban bat colony in North America lives in Austin's Congress Avenue Bridge.
Everyone's Art Car Parade and Festival
In early May, Houstonians take to the streets for Everyone's Art Car Parade and Festival.
For ten days in April, more than 100 events are held throughout the city to celebrate Fiesta San Antonio.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Cowboys covet a chance to wrastle, rope, and ride at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
The Rio Grande, Devils and Pecos rivers join here, creating a source of beauty and a nature.
Padre Island National Seashore
Kids kick up the sand on 80 miles of the Padre Island National Seashore, a natural playground.
This courthouse in a small town in West Texas dominates the skyline.
A melting pot of a city, San Antonio is host to a wide array of destinations and festivals, particularly along its river.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort
About 175 miles west of Houston, the Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort is high-tech water fun.
San Antonio's Sea World combines an amusement park, water park, as well as animal attractions and live entertainment.
Interactive exhibits at Space Center Houston allow you to touch a moon rock and dock a space shuttle.
Beauty, wildlife, bucolic port towns, and noteworthy beaches dot the Texas coastline.
Shake the dust of Texas off your boots, and head to the Rockies for the fresh, cool mountain air. Continue to the next page to read about planning a family vacation in the Rockies.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
The grounds of Colorado's statehouse are as majestic as the building.
Family Vacations: The Rockies
From mountaintop to river valley, the Rockies are for exploration. Climb, hike, raft, swim, or simply walk your way through spectacular vistas in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Montana, or Idaho. National parks include the Great Sand Dunes, Yellowstone and Glacier, while smaller attractions like the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah, all give kids experiences they'll treasure for a lifetime.
Read the articles below to find attractions in the Rockies that your kids will love - you'll also find Mobil-rated hotels and restaurants in the area that welcome families.
The world's largest hot mineral pool maintains a 90-degree temperature year-round.
This gigantic monument to Buddah brings worshipers as well as the curious to Colorado.
The Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Summit Pikes Peak via the Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway.
Attending a show at this outdoor theater, surrounded by strangely acoustical red rocks, is an eye-catching and ear-worthy experience.
Climb or take a rail line to the famous peak, and find out when it's best to visit.
A vacationers paradise, the trappings of Telluride are particularly alluring to families who come here to take advantage of comfortable resort life and a host of outdoor activities.
Anyone interested in animals should plan a trip to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, the largest facility of its type in the U.S. housing animals that range from puppies to ponies.
Take to the ancient waters of this salty sea, a prehistoric relic of the region's oceanic past.
This busy recreational lake offers houseboats for rent and many opportunities for water enthusiasts.
Up-close, the eerie images of the old west in Monument Valley will remind you of old shoot-out movies, but the beauty of this region is well worth the effort made to get there.
One of Salt Lake City's most stunning attractions, Temple Square presents a grand façade to the city.
Park City was host to the Olympics in 2002, and now visitors can experience the thrill of the games.
Buffalo Bill Historical Center
Cody hosts five museums in the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, each explores the Old West.
This rodeo is among the biggest in the nation, creating a festival atmosphere that even the most dedicated city-slicker would find hard to resist.
The Old West is never forgotten on the streets of Cody, where you're likely to run into shootouts and cowboys.
Devils Tower National Monument
Kids as young as four are invited to try climbing Devils Tower.
Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark
A sacred mountain, this distant destination in the Bighorn National Forest is revered as a spiritual destination.
The Rockies were the last hurdle to the West for the pioneers. Continue to the next page to find out how to plan a family vacation in the Rockies.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
Portland proudly demures its skyline to the greeenery that surrounds it.
Family Vacations: The Pacific
California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii represent some of the most diverse landscapes and cultures in the U.S. From the relaxed beach life along California's portion of the Pacific Ocean, to the snowy banks of Alaska's coastline, visitors to this region are treated to spectacular views from almost any perch they choose along the western coastline. We've assembled a list of family vacation destinations in the Pacific region and coupled them with Mobil-rated hotels and restaurants that cater to families for your convenience.
Travel to the San Diego Zoo, visit the Columbia River Gorge, or hike up the side of a Hawaiian volcano. If you arrive at the right time, you can catch big events such as California's Tournament of Roses Parade, Portland's Rose Festival and Rose Gardens, or the Washington State International Kite Festival. Or show true grit and arrive in Alaska in time for the Iditarod.
Covering more than a thousand miles from Anchorage to Nome, the Iditarod is the height of sportsmanship for mushers.
Learn about totems and their meaning at this site, where more than two dozen totem poles tell the story of life in Alaska.
World Ice Art Championships and Kid's Park
Late February's World Ice Art Championships and Kid's Park in Fairbanks is spectacular.
Creepy and informative, a visit to San Francisco's Alcatraz Island gives some excellent insight into prison life.
Mysterious, majestic, jaw dropping - these are words used to describe California's Big Sur.
California State Railroad Museum
Sacramento shows off locomotives that helped to build it at the California State Railroad Museum.
Chinatown and the Chinese New Year
San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest community of Chinese in the U.S., and while the neighborhood is lively throughout the year, Chinese New Year brings a celebration to the streets.
Disneyland's dizzying array of things to do keeps families happy and entertained for days.
San Francisco's Exploratorium creates innovative hands-on exhibits that wow kids - and their parents.
An extraordinary collection of art inside is rivaled by the gardens outside the Getty Center in Los Angeles.
Iconic, dramatic, beautiful, the Golden Gate Bridge delights visitors who drive or walk across as well as shutterbugs who try to catch a snapshot in just the right light.
Grand, and over-the-top, Heart Castle in San Simeon welcomes visitors for tours and living history programs.
Discover some of the best tourist destinations in Tinseltown.
Los Angeles prehistoric swamp continues to give paleontologists something to work on and visitors something to see.
Imagination and reality meet at Carlsbad's LegoLand, a playground of possibilities inspired by - and made up of - Legos.
Many hands-on activities and truly awe-inspiring displays make a visit to Monterey Bay Aquarium memorable.
Drive through, hike around, or sit and sip, but don't miss an opportunity to explore California's Napa Valley.
More than 800 species call the San Diego Zoo home. A world-class facility, plan for a long visit.
This charming Spanish-styled town features gardens, seaside diversions and activities year-round.
Arrive by ferry or boat on this car-free island just a short drive from Los Angeles, and enjoy a quiet seaside retreat.
San Diego's SeaWorld thrills kids with opportunities to touch, learn about, and see things aquatic.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Twenty-six-story trees tower at Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park.
Pasadena's Tournament of Roses Parade celebrates the Rose Bowl each New Year's Day.
Each day brings a reason for festivity and activity on Venice Beach.
A tangle of rooms, staircases, and doors, this mansion boggles visitors and designers.
Yosemite National Park's mountains, trees, and waterfalls are legendary for their beauty.
Maui's Kapalua Beach is among the best in Hawaii, and it's an ideal locale for families with toddlers.
Oahu's North Shore Big Surf Competition
The best arrive to compete in some of the world's tallest waves in November and December.
Learn about regional culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu.
This monument to Pearl Harbor pays tribute to the 1,177 crewmembers who died in the attack.
Oahu's famed two-mile stretch of sand is a resort haven with plenty for kids and parents to do.
A great place to catch a rainbow, Waimea Canyon's bright colors can be seen on foot or by helicopter.
Oregon
Cross the Columbia River from Oregon to Washington.
The Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls
See the many waterfalls at Columbia River Gorge and Multnomah Falls.
Outdoors enthusiasts arrive on this volcanic mountain to take advantage of its beauty, trails and sights.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument
Waterfalls and forested trails create a paradise for those in search of exercise or escape.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area
Rent an ATV to cross the landscape of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
This historic spot is a point of civic pride and celebration.
Portland Rose Festival and Rose Gardens
June is time for the Portland Rose Festival and a visit to the Rose Gardens.
Marking the end of Louis and Clark's long journey, the town of Seaside delivers history with a dollop of charm.
Memorial Day weekend thousands converge on Seattle for a cultural celebration, the Northwest Folklife Festival.
From here, visitors get a pristine view of the Pacific Northwest, and can also learn about the power of a volcano.
Lively and full of food, art and music, the Pike Place Market is wonderfully entertaining.
From the Puget Sound's San Juan Islands you can see sea lions, dolphins and orcas.
Soar up the Space Needle and visit the heart of Seattle at the Seattle Center.
Washington State International Kite Festival
Colors and shapes take over the windy skies in August in Long Beach, Washington.
From Washington, continue exploring the continent -- it's sometimes just a short boat-ride from Washington to Canada, and it's a brief journey by plane to the warm and welcoming shores of Mexico. In addition to family vacation in the U.S., we've compiled favorite vacation areas in Canada and Mexico. Continue reading to find out more.
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.
A Trolly tours visitors through Toronto.
Family Vacations: Canada and Mexico
From Niagara Falls to Vancouver, or Chichen Itza to Cozumel, exploring the far north or south of North America reaps many rewards. From the friendly charms of Canada in places like Old Quebec, to a warm welcome in Mexico, it's worth a visit to explore the treasures both countries hold.
From December - March, whales arrive in the Sea of Cortez to mate, making frequent surface visits.Here you find more than a dozen must-see destinations and events in Canada and Mexico, accompanied by hotel and restaurant recommendations from Mobil Travel Guide.
Alberta's snow-capped peaks at Banff National Park draw explorers for outdoor sports.
With a purse of more than a million dollars, the Calgary Stampede is the wealthiest rodeo in the world.
Seals swim up to this welcoming island to explore, just like terrestrial visitors do.
Toronto, Ontario's Hockey Hall of Fame is the go-to place for hockey fans everywhere.
Pristine, crystal clear, and offering majestic mountain views, Lake Louise is the pride of Alberta.
Montreal's European charm brings the tourists out in their walking shoes.
View Niagara Falls from a bridge, boat or trail - and from the U.S. or Canada.
Canada's walled city, Old Quebec is a dash of Europe in North America.
Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island, was the inspiration for Anne of Green Gables.
Shop and explore in this cosmopolitan city.
Visit the city of Vancouver to explore a hip, trendy, international metropolis.
Arrive at Victoria and Vancouver Island by boat to begin an enchanting journey through gardens and architecture.
Theme park-meets-mall in Alberta's West Edmonton Mall, where more than 800 shops are surrounded by rides.
Those in search of a getaway will be pleased with this remote and under-populated region.
The ancient city of Chichen Itza features Mayan relics and temples.
Busy beaches and lots to do make Cozumel and Isla Mujeres such sought-after destinations.
A city with history and welcoming charm, Guadalajara invites visitors who want to take time to explore.
Beaches stretch out to welcome visitors this sandy paradise.
Oaxaca's Day of the Dead and Night of the Radishes Festivals
In Oaxaca, Halloween is celebrated with a Day of the Dead and Night of the Radishes Festival.
Incorporating assets of natural surroundings into activities that families will love, Xcaret and Xel-Ha are a favorite of families.
Whale Watching in the Sea of Cortez
Visit the following links to learn about scenic drives or to get recommendations on Mobil Travel Guide's ratings on hotels, resorts, and restaurants.